Spring Cleaning

Something about spring makes us want to clean and organize our homes. Cleaning out rooms and getting rid of things we don’t need or want any more makes us feel lighter and fresher. A fitting feeling for spring I would say.

However, spring cleaning shouldn’t just be focused on our homes and the “stuff” in it. I think it should also apply to our bodies as well. Cleaning up our diets and getting rid of all the yucky foods that our bodies don’t need is a great way to get that lighter, fresher feeling both inside and out! Plus, you can kill two birds with one stone and give your fridge a good cleaning out at the same time!

Food – What’s in Season?

Asparagus – This super food is chock full of Vitamins K and C! It helps feed the good bacteria in your digestive tract. Comes in handy during the seasons when our immune systems can be compromised. 

Broccoli – The Italians introduced it to us. You can cook it, boil it, steam it or just eat it raw… and get a good dose of Vitamin C, calcium and fiber.

Rhubarb – Yes, we make a famous pie out of a vegetable! In addition to being high in fiber to help with proper digestion, it is a great source of Vitamins K and C and iron.

Mango – A good dose of Vitamins C and A, full of fiber and potassium and can help your digestive system. It’s really a wonderful refreshing spring fruit!

Strawberries – On top of being delicious and very refreshing, they are high in Vitamin C to help build up your immune system during these compromising months. And they are also good for your teeth! 

Weather and Colors

It really is true that colors have an effect upon our moods. Do you like to dress in colors that match the season? Florals or brighter, happier colors than you did in the fall and winter? The changing of the seasons is a good time to brighten up your wardrobe… and even your overall mood!

Good Springtime Oils 

Jasmine – Sweet spring smell in a bottle! It lifts up your spirits and can help ease stress.

Lavender – This one is very well known. It’s sweet and uplifting smell can help to soothe stressful days, support the immune system and brighten your mood and get you eager for spring!

Lemon (other citrus oils) – Very few people can remain gloomy after smelling citrus. Lemon and orange are great for waking up the mind, and for supporting the immune system.

Peppermint – A favorite of many and a smell recognized by all, it brings alertness to your senses, supports your immune system… and makes you and your home smell wonderful!  (Peppermint is wonderful mixed with lemon…for a double whammy!)

Favorite Spring Events

The weather is so pretty! Get outside and enjoy it while it lasts! Hot scorching weather is coming… especially for Texas.

Get some exercise. Walk around your neighborhood, go for a hike or a bike ride. Take some deep breaths of fresh spring air… and take your camera with you! You might find some beautiful scenery or blooming flowers to photograph.

It’s spring time… and St. Patrick’s Day in the same month! It’s time to bring out the green! Green shirts, green decorations, green food… wait, what?

Yes, your first thought of green food MAY not be a pleasant one, but let me reassure you: Green is such a delicious color! There are so many great healthy foods and recipes you can make. So when you plan your next St. Patty’s day party (or even just a spring get together) and you want to go all out with color of the season… you’re covered!

• Avocados – A great source of healthy fats, protein and fiber, there are so many delicious dishes you can make with avocados. From smoothies, to brownies, to chocolate mousse, to the ever popular guacamole.
• Broccoli – Raw or cooked, this green vegetable is high in calcium and good for your eyes. Place them on a vegetable tray to serve to guests or serve them cooked with a little bit of sea salt sprinkled on top.
• Cucumbers – This green vegetable is great for hydration and detoxification. Throw some slices of cucumber and limes in some water for a nice hydrating drink.
• Green Apples – Top the slices with cinnamon and you have a sweet and nutritious dish that can help your heart and digestive system.
• Green Cabbage – Cabbage feels like a must-have on St. Patrick’s day. It is also very good for you, giving your body some much needed iron and vitamin C.
• Green Tea – There is more than one type of green tea… but whatever kind, and whether you drink it hot or cold, it boosts your heart health, brain health and helps weight loss. So make a cup, try adding lemon or orange juice for a refreshing burst of flavor… or, if tea is not your thing but you still want the benefits, you can try adding some chilled green tea to ice cream, or make a green tea and mango smoothie.
• Limes – Boost your immunity and enjoy some refreshing drinks (limeade is a favorite) AND dessert. It’s a win win!
• Spinach – A fresh garden salad on a spring day is so refreshing. Toss in some fresh kale for some added antioxidants and detox ability.

Now that we have had our daily dose of fruits and vegetables, it is time for dessert. Have some mint… and add it to your ice cream!

Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

A few other delicious green foods you can add to the list are honeydew, kiwi, green beans and asparagus.